Joanna Quinn, a Portland High School senior, is one of just four
drummers across the state to be accepted into the Maine Jazz All-State
Festival, which will be held early next year, according to Andrew
Chipman, PHS music teacher.
She auditioned Oct. 24, Chipman said.
He
said, “The Jazz All-State Festival only accepts four drummers from high
school students around the state. They have many, many drummers to
choose from. Joanna had to bring her "A-game" in order to accomplish
this. I'd like to think she displays the excellence we expect of all our
PHS students.”
The Jazz Festival is a statewide, select high
school festival and the student ensembles include two jazz bands, a jazz
combo, and a jazz choir. It will take place at Scarborough High School
on Jan. 8-10, Chipman said.
“Joanna is a serious musician and an
artist in her own right. She has put a lot of work into her musical
growth by taking lessons and attending summer music programs. She is
active in our school music ensembles,” Chipman said. “While she has a
competitive spirit, she is also a good teammate and supportive of her
peers at school. Her commitment to excellence has paid off.”